Thousands of people took to the streets of Seoul on Saturday, December 14, in response to a call for support of the impeachment of President Yoon Suk-yeol.
According to international media reports, the protests are a direct result of growing dissatisfaction with the president’s actions and his handling of national security issues.
French news agency AFP quoted an official security source in Seoul, who predicted that as many as 200,000 people would rally in support of the impeachment motion. The protests come ahead of a crucial parliamentary vote to determine whether President Yoon should be removed from office.
The crowds gathered outside the National Assembly, demanding that their elected representatives vote in favor of the impeachment. The scene was one of political turmoil, with chants and placards echoing throughout the area.
The issue centers around President Yoon’s recent announcement of military preparedness in response to potential threats, a move that triggered widespread debate and backlash from both political parties and the public.
The president controversial stance ignited a firestorm of criticism, leading to an initial attempt to impeach him, which failed to gather sufficient support. However, a second motion proposed by the opposition party yesterday has gained significant traction, fueled by widespread public discontent.
As the parliamentary vote on the impeachment looms, the protests are expected to intensify. Citizens are demanding that President Yoon be held accountable for his actions, particularly his handling of national security and his government’s approach to addressing internal political challenges.
The growing unrest indicates a deepening political crisis that could have long-term implications for the country’s leadership and governance.
The outcome of today’s parliamentary vote will likely determine the next steps in South Korea’s political landscape. Should the motion pass, it could lead to the first-ever impeachment of a sitting South Korean president.
This turbulent period in South Korean politics also highlights a broader trend of political polarization, with citizens taking to the streets to express their dissatisfaction with a leadership they feel is unresponsive to the needs of the people. The future of President Yoon’s presidency now rests on the decision of the parliament, as protests continue to unfold in the heart of Seoul.
The post Mass protests erupt in South Korea over impeachment of president Yoon appeared first on Khaama Press.
